Community Conversation: Abuses of Power in Our Community

On Sunday, April 28, 18 people attended our Community Conversation focused on the topic of abuses of power in our community. Aspirations for this conversation included “getting to know one another at a deeper level,” “healing,” “understanding what happened and how to address it,” “learning to hold, express, and feel pain along with love,” “development of a sane, kind, enlightened society,” among others. There was a shared sense of the need for greater honesty and appreciation for how our actions affect relationships both near and far.

A number of stories regarding abuse of power were shared, both in written and spoken form. E-mails from past and present members were solicited and included. Common themes included the many ways in which authority and power are exercised, along with the potential of abuse; the sexual/gendered nature of many of the stories; and the ways in which power can be used to arbitrarily include and exclude others.

Although the conversation was difficult, many people felt that this was a good start and that the story sharing should continue. People were appreciative of the courage of those who told their stories, of having a deeper understanding of the pain and suffering in our community, and of the commitment toward doing the work of healing in our local sangha.

For those who did not attend but would like to read the stories that were shared, please contact co-director John Smith at john.smith@portland.shambhala.org. We hope to have these stories – along with the notes of our conversations to date – posted for member access in the near future.

Thanks to all who have attended, and continue to show up for, these challenging and rewarding conversations!